The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Health

Mental health and self-care go hand in hand. But too often, we tend to focus solely on diagnoses, medications, and therapy. We rarely ever talk about the most central aspect of maintaining well-being—Self-care.

Self-care is vital. Yet, it can be difficult for many to fully understand it, accept it, and consistently implement it. But without it, we risk burning out and losing ourselves in the process. The lower our energy, the more difficult it is to be alert, and stay in the present moment. So it is essential to incorporate some downtime into your schedule.

To some, self-care may seem obvious. But to others, they struggle with the belief that it’s selfish or indulgent, or a type of egotistical behavior. This is especially true within the neurodivergent community. People there often have a harder time taking the necessary steps to achieve that time for themselves.

We’re taught to prioritize others’ needs over our own. But when we constantly put ourselves on the backburner, it only creates more internal chaos. We become depleted, disconnected, and emotionally drained. It might feel selfish to recharge, but there’s honestly nothing selfish about keeping yourself from hitting a wall.

For those living with a mental health condition, self-care is more than a luxury—it’s a lifeline. Neurodivergents crave stimulation, and we yearn for alone time. Despite what we’ve been conditioned to believe, we deserve to have both. It’s crucial to focus on your needs, show up for yourself, and give yourself the same love, care, and compassion that you freely give to others.

Why Self-Care Matters

Mental health impacts every aspect of our lives. It affects our energy, mood, emotional regulation, and ability to connect with others. When we neglect ourselves, everything else begins to suffer. It’s important to understand that you have many resources and tools at your fingertips. It can help you learn more about self-care and just how to execute it.

Self-care helps to:

✦ Regulate Emotions

Small daily practices like breathing exercises, journaling, or gentle movement can help soothe anxiety and reduce stress. These actions support emotional stability.

✦ Build Structure and Routine

Routines help us feel grounded. For many neurodivergents, having a plan offers comfort, predictability, and fewer surprises that throw us off track.

✦ Reinforce Self-Worth

Taking care of yourself sends a powerful message: I matter. It’s a declaration that you are worthy of attention, rest, and healing.

✦ Prevent Burnout

Burnout is very real. Self-care offers a break from the chaos—helping you reset and recharge before you crash.

Self-Care as a Tool

Society glorifies productivity, and It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind if you’re not constantly “doing” something. But many people feel guilty for needing to rest or emotionally recharge. They worry that they’ll be judged for appearing to be “lazy” or “unmotivated.”

But the truth is, self-care is key. It fuels the body and mind, and gives us momentum and strength to face daily tasks and emotional challenges. It pushes us forward, quietly yet powerfully.

Self-care isn’t just a trendy buzz, it’s a tool. A tool that helps us regulate our emotions, nurture our anxiety, and create environments that support your unique needs.

Sometimes, self-care is:

Saying “no” without overexplaining
Taking your meds and going to bed early
Letting yourself cry in the shower
Watching a comfort show for the tenth time
Reaching out when you’re struggling, even if your voice shakes

Mental Health & Guilt

Guilt is one of the biggest barriers to self-care, especially for neurodivergent individuals. You might think:

“Other people have it worse.”
“I should be doing more.”
“I don’t deserve rest unless I’ve accomplished something.”

But here’s the truth:
You don’t have to earn rest, and you don’t have to prove your pain. You are entitled to feel your feelings. Try not to compare yourself to others’ troubles. Instead, give yourself some grace, and focus solely on you.

Don’t wait until you burn out to give yourself the care you so deeply deserve. Mental health is personal, and your self-care should reflect that. What soothes you might not soothe others—and that’s perfectly okay.

A Daily Practice

Self-care is like brushing your teeth. You don’t just do it once and expect it to last forever. It’s something you return to everyday. In whatever way you are capable of.

Some days, you might have the energy to do more, and successfully accomplish incorporating self-care into your schedule. Other days, just getting out of bed is enough. And that still counts.

Start where you are. Be kind and gentle with yourself. And always remember that progress isn’t linear. It takes time and determination, but it’s worth every ounce of your dedication.

In Conclusion

Self-care is about facing hard truths and showing up for yourself—even when it’s difficult. It’s about choosing to keep going, to keep believing in your worth, and to keep giving yourself what you need to survive and thrive.

It’s not all about fancy face masks and luxurious spa days. Although those are nice, and a great form of self-care, it’s more about nourishing your soul in the only way that you can.

I’d love to hear about some things you do to practice self-care. Let me know in the comments below!